Italy Holidays

Bella Italia – the Mediterranean country is a popular holiday destination for the young, the old, the big, and the small. A holiday in Italy combines everything imaginable for an amazing break. If you love beach holidays, you can find the perfect spot on a sun-kissed island. Head for the mountains, if you like to stay active on holiday. If you enjoy culture and sightseeing, then a city break in a historic centre is ideal for you. You can enjoy the classic Dolce Vita in every corner of the country. The journey is worth it for the delicious Italian cuisine alone. You can read about the most impressive regions in Italy and what makes them particularly special here.

Flights From Ireland to Italy

There are a number of destinations that you can fly directly to from airports in Ireland. With thanks to the expansion of many airports in, Ireland you can now fly directly to more Italian destinations than ever. It’s not just Dublin anymore, read on to check out all of the airports that go direct. you can use my flight finder to get the best deal on flights to Italy.

Flights from Dublin

As you might expect Dublin has the most destinations available. If you’re looking to book a holiday to Italy then Dublin is usually a safe bet. On the cheaper end of the spectrum, you have flights to Venice, Milan, Rome, Naples, Pisa and Bologna. All of these airports are perfect ways to get yourself a great value Italy holiday.

The more expensive destinations include flights to Bari, Turin, Palermo, Verona and Catania. These destinations are generally sought after for access to the Italian Riveria. So from these, you can expect places like Lake Garda and Cinque Terra.

Flights from Cork

As I have mentioned the list of destination airports from Cork is bigger than it used to be but it is by no means extensive. The only direct flights that you can get from Cork are to Milan and Verona.

This isn’t a bad thing though you can still get some great holidays to Lake Garda and the city of Milan is always a winner.

Flights from Knock

With Knock, the list decreases again, unfortunately. You can still, however, get direct flights to Milan. This means that you can get some great value city breaks to this legendary city.

If you are willing to bit of travel when you get there you can also get to a number of destinations on the coastline.

Flights from Shannon

Unfortunately, there are no direct flights from Shannon to Italy. Hopefully, in the future, there will be more development and more routes opened up. Your best option would probably be Cork.

Hotels in Italy

With Italy being such a great country to travel to, the number of hotels is incredibly high. Over 33,500 – and that is not private accommodation included! Now with such a great variety it is a bit tricky to find your ideal hotel. The standard in general is also a bit lower than in Ireland, so be sure to check reviews and such when you book a 3 star hotel. Hotels in Rome are of course very pricey but even there you will be able to find a good deal through my hotel finder.

Beach Holidays Italy

There are many potential destinations in Italy where you can enjoy the sun and stretch out on the sand. Many tourists prefer to go on a holiday by sea in Italy. I’m going to give you some details about the most beautiful now destinations in Italy for a holiday.

Sicily – a Holiday on the Biggest Mediterranean Island

Sicily is in the Mediterranean between the south coast of Italy’s mainland and the African coast. Its countless beaches make this long-awaited summer holiday destination absolutely perfect. Families mainly go to the southeast of the island. Here, the beaches are shallow and the sea is calm. The coastal regions never fail to make bathers happy.

People looking for an active holiday can also find everything they long for on Sicily. Mount Etna towers over the island. The volcano is just waiting for you to climb it! The island is also rich in plants. Amateur botanists and nature lovers can find over 3,000 different types of plant species here. The biggest island in the Mediterranean is wonderfully diverse and it only ever shows off its best angle to all the tourists which visit every year. Here, there is some more information and some great offers for your sun holiday to Sicily.

Sardinia – the Island with a Special Shape

After Sicily, Sardinia is the second biggest island in the Mediterranean and it promises a magical holiday by the sea. The island has a peculiar feature. The shape of it strongly resembles a footprint. You can find bathing spots along the entire coast, although some are prettier than others. Some are easy to reach, while others are hidden away in secret locations on Sardinia. On the beaches, you can tan in the sun or splash around in the Mediterranean. Many of the bays are great for diving and snorkelling – the underwater world around Sardinia is spectacular!

The Adriatic Sea – Ideal for a Family Holiday

The Adriatic is perfect for a beach holiday in Italy with the whole family. The beaches here stretch for miles and between the,m you can find picturesque lagoons. The Adriatic Sea is famous because it is extremely calm. Children and adults can swim here without the danger of strong currents. You can also explore the beautiful landscape on a bike. The pathways lead you through Italy’s idyllic countryside. There are countless regions which border the Adriatic Sea and grant you a dreamy holiday in Italy. If you’re on the hunt for great offers in Northern Italy, you can find them here.

Lake Garda – a Break by the Biggest Lake in Italy

In the north of Italy, you can find another popular holiday destination – Lake Garda. Loads of tourists come to the biggest lake in the country every year for their well-earned holiday. The setting is unique. While you swim in the lake, you can gaze at the mountains, which encircle the lake.

There is no limit to the variety of activities on offer on and around the lake. You can go on a long cycling tour, go hiking, take a stroll along the lake, or visit the different villages around Lake Garda. There are also different amusement parks, which are great for little holidaymakers. In the winter, Lake Garda is a popular destination for the sporty as they can ski, snowboard, and sledge through the mountain landscape. You can have a blast by Lake Garda at any time of the year.

Puglia – Welcome to the Heel

You definitely have to go to Puglia, if you fancy a holiday in the heel of Italy’s boot. The region in southeast Italy attracts those looking for a bit of rest and relaxation on holiday. Here, there are white, sandy beaches and clear, blue waters without end. The countryside is more pristine here than in many other regions. Hiking or at least a couple of short walks are a must. White, round farmhouses are characteristic of Puglia. You can find them away from the coast, where you can also find many other points of interest.

Calabria – the Sun-Kissed Toe

You can also spend your holiday in Italy in the toe of the boot. For around 300 days a year, you can soak up the sun in Calabria. The most southerly region in Italy has a lovely long coast, which offers countless spots to swim and sunbathe.

Most of the peninsula is surrounded by water. The towns are also impressive and feature sights, which are unique to Calabria. Historical and cultural highlights make beach holidays less monotonous and offer a bit of variety.

Tuscany – Holiday in the Heart of Italy

I have to tell you about Tuscany. The region in the middle of Italy has a long coastline. If you want to go to the sea, you can go to a beautiful beach and watch the waves splash on the shore.

In northern Tuscany, you can find the beaches of your dreams with golden sand and blue water. Small bays in the south are great for sunbathing and swimming. If you get caught in bad weather on your holiday or if you decide to visit Tuscany in the winter, you can sit back and relax in one of the many wellness centres. In Tuscany, there are many natural springs which make for a relaxing spa break.

Italian City Breaks

This boot-shaped country has many different destinations for an amazing city break. I am going to tell you about the most popular destinations now.

Rome – the Eternal City

Rome is definitely at the top of the list when it comes to city trips. The capital of Italy is situated on the banks of the River Tiber. There are ancient ruins, museums and a tasty pizza around every corner of the Eternal City. When in Rome, you have to see the Spanish Steps, the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, and the Pantheon, as well as the Roman Forum. The Vatican City and St. Peter’s Basilica is a real highlight. Even non-believers should take a look at the smallest country in the world. Rome is definitely one of the cities that everyone should visit at least once in their lives.

Venice – the Magical Lagoon City

Another popular destination for a city trip is Venice. The capital of the northeast, Venice is a tourist magnet because of its many canals and historic landmarks. A gondola ride around the lagoons and islands is a must. During the ride, you’ll come across the world-famous Grand Canal. It leads you past impressive palaces to the Rialto Bridge, which is the oldest bridge on the canal. You should add St Mark’s Square and St Mark’s Basilica, as well as the Doge’s Palace and a number of museums to your holiday itinerary. You can’t help but be amazed in Venice!

Florence – the City of Great Artists and Attractions

Florence, the capital of Tuscany, is home to a number of gems for those interested in culture, art, and history. In the past, great artists like Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci have worked in the city. Imposing buildings, cathedrals and churches, monuments, and museums – the cultural and historical heritage is endless.

The birthplace of the Renaissance is really unique. There are many things in Florence which you should definitely not miss, such as the historic city centre, the Uffizi Gallery, the Palazzo Pitti, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, and much, much more. You can expect many things from Florence, but never boredom!

Naples – the Misunderstood Beauty

Naples, the third-biggest city in Italy is generally not the first choice for a city break in Italy. It is famous for its many mountains of rubbish. However, Naples has divinely beautiful sights, which are definitely worth a visit. At the top of the list is Vesuvius, which is known across the world for its enormous powers of destruction.

Next is the Old Town, which isn’t a UNESCO Heritage Site for nothing. It is characterised by tiny lanes and pretty churches, as well as underground passages. The Cathedral of San Gennaro and the San Severo Chapel are particularly striking sights. Think about Naples when you’re planning your next holiday in Italy – it is more beautiful than you think!

Whether you go to Rome, Venice, or Florence, I can guarantee that you’ll leave a piece of your heart in each of these Italian cities!

Active Holidays in Italy – Wanderlust, Winter Sports and Wine

Italy is renowned for its city breaks and beach holidays. However, active holidays in Italy are no less interesting. There are so many destinations for active holidays throughout the whole country. You’re going to find out what these are next.

South Tyrol – Ski Resorts and First Class Footpaths

South Tyrol is popular across the world as a destination for active holidays. You can visit the most northerly region of Italy at any time of the year. If you like winter sports, you should choose to go when it’s cold. In the winter, snow is guaranteed and the Alps are covered with white powder. You can snowboard or ski down the slopes here.

The ski resorts attract countless tourists from around the world each year. As the snow melts, beautiful footpaths in the Dolomites are uncovered, which look out over the wide world. The South Tyrol valley is famous as a wine-growing region too. Enjoy a glass of wine here to give you that real holiday feeling.

Liguria – the Perfect Combination of Holidays

If you love hiking and climbing mountains but want to catch your breath on the beach from time to time, then Liguria is the right region for you. Here, the sea meets the imposing Ligurian Alps. The mountains reach up to 2,000 metres in height.

The Riviera di Levante is a huge hiking area in Liguria, which is unrivalled anywhere else in the world. You can walk along the paths through the forest and catch a glimpse of the blue sea. Hikers from around the world stop in amazement at the breath-taking sight. Hiking along the Ligurian coast is a unique experience.

Umbria – Italy’s Green Lungs

Umbria, in the middle of Italy, is the green heart of the country. It is unique because this region is the only one in Italy with no coastline. You’re out of place here if you only want a beach holiday.

For an active holiday in superb surroundings, however, Umbria is the perfect destination. The landscape is hilly. Forests, meadows, and streams give it an idyllic character. Don’t forget your walking shoes – here, they’re your best friends. Perugia is the capital of the region and is absolutely worth a trip. The city is characterised by buildings from the Middle Ages and wonderful works of art. You can satisfy your love of culture in Umbria.

Abruzzo – a Nature Reserve as Far as the Eyes Can See

If you love nature reserves and national parks, go to Abruzzo on your holiday. This Italian region is home to the highest number of nature reserves in the country.

Here, you can spend your break surrounded by nature, which many people only dream of. You can visit the Gran Sasso National Park, the Majella National Park, and the Sirente-Velino Regional Park. Abruzzo is rich in natural beauty and casts a spell on you with its pristine, unspoilt countryside.

Piemonte – an Insider’s Tip for an Active Holiday in Italy

If you want to escape other tourists on a hiking holiday, the Piemonte region is the best place to go. Many holidaymakers have not yet discovered the beauty of this area, which is surrounded by the Alps. While out hiking, there is a view of Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in the Alps. Lago Maggiore is a popular spot in Piemonte. As well as this, you should also take a trip to Turin, the region’s capital.

Lombardy – Nature and Fashion

Like all regions in the North of Italy, the Alps also have an influence on Lombardy. Signposted footpaths lead you into unspoilt nature. In the winter, Lombardy turns into a picturesque snowscape. There are popular ski resorts throughout the whole region. A trip to the fashion capital, Milan, is a must. Here, you can invest your money in fashion pieces and, at the same time, you can bring some nice souvenirs of your holiday home with you.

Emilia-Romagna – a Rambler’s Paradise

Lombardy borders Emilia Romagna, which is another popular holiday destination. Idyllic mountain landscapes mean that it’s a paradise for hikers. Many parts of the countryside are protected. In the Po Delta, you can expect to see wonderful plants and animals. A walk here does wonders for the mind and body. The Apennine National Park is ideal for professional walkers. To relax afterwards, you can go to the beach. As Emilia Romagna’s beach is about 100 kilometres long and is made of fine, golden sand, there are countless places for both swimming and sunbathing. This region is the best for combining active and beach holidays.

Veneto – the Most Diverse Region

Veneto is great for those of you who need variety on your holiday. Here, you can do anything that your heart desires. In the winter, you are in the perfect place for a ski holiday in the Dolomites. If you’re looking for a destination for your next city trip in Veneto, you’ve struck gold with Venice or Verona. You can try out a water sport or two on Lake Garda. For a relaxing break on the beach, the Adriatic coast is the place to be. Veneto is the most diverse region in Italy, which makes holidaymakers’ hearts leap with joy.

Book a Holiday to Italy with Holidayguru.ie

Theres no doubt about it that Italy is a great holiday destination at any time of the year. If you’re looking for a city break to Italy there are plenty of options with amazing cities like Rome, Milan and Venice. If you’re looking to relax on a beach there are even more options for you to choose from. There is the absolutely stunning Neopolitan Riveria, Lake Garda, Cinque Terre or pretty much any part of Sicily to choose from!

Make sure you keep an eye on Holidayguru.ie for all of the latest offers to this absolutely amazing country.

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